The quest to save Mexico’s vaquita’s porpoise has involved scientists, environmentalists, and government agencies on both sides border. Yet the population has continued to drop: Today, fewer than 30 are believed to survive.

A new documentary, “Souls of the Vermilion Sea,” chronicles the extensive efforts to preserve the world’s most endangered marine mammal, a species endemic to Mexico’s Upper Gulf of California. In doing so, the producers also examine at the impact of the crisis on the local fishing communities.

Wild Lens, a non-profit media company based in Boise, Idaho, has committed to telling the story of the vaquita, with all of its layers and complexities.

While the final aim of co-producers Sean Bogle and Matthew Podolsky is to produce a feature-length film, they saw an urgent need to tell the story sooner — and are releasing a 30-minute documentary on Saturday, in time for Earth Day. Both are biologists as well as filmmakers.

“We’re trying to do it in real time,” Bogle said. “Our intention is to reach far and fast. The clock is ticking.”

Bogle added that “the story’s not over. The final film will be released when we feel there’s closure.”

The vaquita can grow to four or five feet long and weigh up to 120 pounds. Paula Olson  NOAA

The vaquita can grow to four or five feet long and weigh up to 120 pounds. Paula Olson  NOAA

The greatest danger to the vaquita in recent years has been illegal nets set to catch totoaba fish, whose swim bladders command high prices in China and Hong Kong, where they are believed to help maintain a youthful appearance. Vaquitas end up drowned after becoming ensnared in the nets.

The Mexican government’s two-year ban on gillnet fishing in the Upper Gulf — a measure aimed at protecting the vaquita — was to expire earlier this month, but was extended through May 31.

Mexico now has committed $3 million toward a plan to establish a sea pen sanctuary where captured vaquita would be protected until illegal fishing is abolished. An international coalition called VaquitaCPR has been formed to raise funds in support of the project.

“Souls of the Vermillion Sea” is scheduled for screening in Mexico, the United States and China over the next six months. Starting Saturday, it will also be available online at vaquitafilm.com.

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The U.S. Navy Marine Mammal Program plans to send its dolphins to join the search next year for Mexico’s endangered vaquita marina porpoise.

The U.S. Navy Marine Mammal Program plans to send its dolphins to join the search next year for Mexico’s endangered vaquita marina porpoise.